The power of staying the course: Lessons from South Africa and Oman
On Saturday at the iconic Lord's, South Africa won the World Test Championship, their first ICC men's title in 27 years. For a nation that has endured the weight of history, the sting of near misses, internal challenges, and complex selection issues, this was more than a trophy.
It was a story of redemption, of standing tall through adversity. Fittingly, it wasn't their most celebrated team that did it — it was one written off by many as their weakest.
Oman's cricketing journey bears similar traits. As a non-traditional cricketing nation, we weren't handed opportunities — we earned them. Over four to five decades, passionate individuals —players, administrators, volunteers, and supporters — have built something extraordinary from scratch.
Today, Oman Cricket boasts a proud record: 9 wins out of 12 in the ongoing ICC World Cup League 2, often against better-ranked and better-resourced opponents.
And here's what makes it more remarkable: this performance came from a team assembled at the last minute. A team that was formed after 10 senior players withdrew just before a major international tournament. It was a decision that shocked many — not just because of its timing, but because of its consequences.
In moments like these, we're reminded of a hard truth: when individuals act out of momentary frustration or personal gain, the cost is carried by many. The team is left scrambling.
The organisation suffers reputational and structural strain. The country loses credibility on the global stage. And often, the individuals who took that decision bear the heaviest burden — struggling to recover professionally and personally, their careers derailed, their futures uncertain.
In contrast, those who stood by the team — who chose discipline over drama, and commitment over conflict —are now writing a new chapter for Oman Cricket. A chapter built on unity, resilience, and deep respect for the game, the institution, and the country that nurtured them.
We don't always get everything we want, exactly when we want it. But when we choose the harder right over the easier wrong — when we stay patient, stay together, and stay grounded —success, recognition, and growth will always follow.
South Africa reminded us of that yesterday. Oman is living proof of it today.
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